Travel Vaccines and Advice for India (2024)

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The Taj Mahal, Hampi, the Himalayas and the Caves of Ajanta are just the beginning for amazing sights in India. For thousands of years, the subcontinent has been the cradle of one of the most amazing cultures to visit.

Every year, tourists from around the globe flock to India to see its amazing sights and sounds. Whether you are a spiritual pilgrim, a business executive or an adventure seeker, India is sure to have something for you.

On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for India?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in India
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for India?
What Is the Climate Like in India?
How Safe Is India?
What Should I Pack for India?
Where Is the U.S. Embassy in India?

Do I Need Vaccines for India?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for India. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for India: typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, chikungunya, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
Cholera –
Food & Water –
A risk for travelers throughout India. Avoid swimming in popular rivers or streams as cholera may be present. Vaccination is recommended for some travelers.
Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers.
Polio –
Food & Water –
May be required if arriving from countries with active transmission. Recommended for some travelers to the region. Single adult booster recommended.
Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended for all regions except: Dadra, Daman, Diu, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Lakshadweep, Meghalaya, Nagar Haveli, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Sikkim.
Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
India has the second most chikungunya cases of any region globally. Vaccination is recommended.
Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals.
Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions.
Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually.
COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic.
Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
–
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.

See the table below for more information:

VACCINE	HOW DISEASE SPREADS	DETAILS
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for India
Typhoid	Food & Water	Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
Cholera	Food & Water	A risk for travelers throughout India. Avoid swimming in popular rivers or streams as cholera may be present. Vaccination is recommended for some travelers.
Hepatitis A	Food & Water	Recommended for most travelers.
Polio	Food & Water	May be required if arriving from countries with active transmission. Recommended for some travelers to the region. Single adult booster recommended.
Yellow Fever	Mosquito	Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Japanese Encephalitis	Mosquito	Recommended for all regions except: Dadra, Daman, Diu, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Lakshadweep, Meghalaya, Nagar Haveli, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Sikkim.
Chikungunya	Mosquito	India has the second most chikungunya cases of any region globally. Vaccination is recommended.
Rabies	Saliva of Infected Animals	High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals.
Hepatitis B	Blood & Body Fluids	Recommended for travelers to most regions.

VACCINE	HOW DISEASE SPREADS	DETAILS
Routine Vaccinations for India
Influenza	Airborne	Vaccine components change annually.
COVID-19	Airborne	Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic.
Pneumonia	Airborne	Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
Meningitis	Direct Contact & Airborne	Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
Chickenpox	Direct Contact & Airborne	Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
Shingles	Direct Contact	Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
	Wounds & Airborne	Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR)	Various Vectors	Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.

Sources: CDC, WHO and ISTM

Specific Vaccine Information

Typhoid – Salmonella Typhi causes typhoid, a severe infection transmitted via contaminated food and water. Vaccination is recommended for travelers and those with elevated infection risks. Practicing proper hygiene and safe food handling can also reduce the likelihood of contracting typhoid.
Cholera – Cholera is a highly infectious disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, primarily spread through contaminated water. It and causes severe diarrhea and dehydration. The cholera vaccine provides long-term protection against infection.
Hepatitis A – Be sure to protect yourself from hepatitis A, a contagious liver infection caused by HAV, through vaccination. The virus spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Along with vaccination, maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding undercooked shellfish are essential for prevention.
Japanese Encephalitis – Japanese encephalitis, a mosquito-borne virus causing neurological issues, can be prevented through mosquito control, protective clothing, and vaccination. Vaccination is highly recommended for individuals in endemic areas or travelers.
Chikungunya – Chikungunya, a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, causes fever and severe joint pain. Prevention includes using mosquito repellent and eliminating breeding sites. Vaccination provides the best protection.
Rabies – Rabies is a life-threatening viral infection transmitted primarily through bites and scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the key to prevention, offering pre-exposure protection to high-risk individuals and post-exposure treatment for those exposed to rabies.
Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B virus causes liver infection, spreading through contact with infected bodily fluids. Prevention measures include safe practices and, notably, hepatitis B vaccination. This vaccine effectively triggers the immune system to produce antibodies, offering reliable, long-term protection against the virus.
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are viral infections with distinct symptoms. They spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent MMR infections, with the MMR vaccine offering protection against all three diseases.

Malaria in India

Malaria is present throughout India, except for regions over 6,500 feet elevation. Travelers are generally advised to take antimalarials no matter their destination or itinerary in the country.

If you are traveling to India, make sure you are protected. Visit your local Passport Health to receive a comprehensive consultation on what you will need to stay safe. Book your appointment online now or call us at and make sure your dream trip doesn’t become a nightmare.

Other Ways to Stay Healthy in India

Prevent Bug Bites in India

In case of bug bites, cleanse the area, use anti-itch treatments, and resist scratching to prevent infection. Seek medical help for severe reactions or if symptoms of vector-borne diseases emerge post-bite.

Food and Water Safety in India

Abroad, practice food safety by avoiding street vendors, washing hands thoroughly, and choosing well-cooked meals. Opt for bottled or canned drinks with unbroken seals. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea by practicing hand hygiene, skipping raw foods, and dining at reputable establishments.

Altitude Sickness in India

Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), manifests at high elevations due to insufficient oxygen intake. To prevent AMS, ascend slowly, hydrate adequately, and consider medication. If symptoms arise—headaches, nausea—descend to lower altitudes immediately for rest and recovery.

Infections To Be Aware of in India

Avian/Bird Flu – Avian flu, a contagious virus affecting birds and humans, can be prevented through poultry vaccination, enhanced biosecurity on farms, proper poultry handling and cooking, vigilant outbreak surveillance, and public education on the virus and its transmission.
Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, caused by tick bites and person-to-person contact, requires preventive actions like tick protection and strict healthcare precautions.
Dengue – Dengue fever is a significant global health concern. Symptoms can escalate from mild fever to life-threatening conditions. Preventing mosquito bites is key to avoidance, with recommendations including repellent and netting use.
Leishmaniasis – The transmission of leishmaniasis primarily occurs through infected sand fly bites, with other routes of transmission possible. Preventing the disease involves minimizing exposure to sand flies. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious symptoms.
Zika – Zika, a virus carried by Aedes mosquitoes, can pose risks, particularly for pregnant women. Preventing Zika requires using mosquito repellent, practicing safe sex, and getting rid of mosquito breeding sites.

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for India?

India requires all U.S. travelers have a visa prior to entering the country. Visa requirements vary based on the purpose of travel, length of stay and family background. A passport with at least six months validity is also required.

Do I Need A…	For My Trip to India?
India Entry Requirements
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of India and U.S. State Department

What Is the Climate Like in India?

India is a big country, the weather can be different depending on where you go. Here’s some information about the weather in some of India’s most popular places:

Goa: Goa is a beach place in India. The best time to go is from November to February when the weather is dry and comfortable.
Delhi: Delhi is a city in India. The best time to go is from October to March when the weather is good.
Mumbai: Mumbai is a city in India. The best time to go is from November to February when it’s cooler.
Jaipur: Jaipur is a city in India. The best time to go is from October to March when the weather is good.
Agra: Agra is a city in India. The best time to go is from November to March when the weather is good.
Kerala: Kerala is a place in India with lots of rain. The best time to go is from September to March when it’s dry.

Remember that the weather can change every year, so it’s always a good idea to check before you go.

How Safe Is India?

Avoid an Embarrassing Stop

Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.

Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!

India is generally safe, but is still a developing country in many ways. Try to avoid the Indian-Pakistani border, as growing tensions have led to a less safe situation.

Petty crime, especially theft is common. This happens mostly in trains and buses. pick-pocketing is known to occur in some tourist areas. Violent crime is traditionally uncommon, though there has been a slight increase in recent years.

Scamming has become more common in many popular areas. Be especially careful in airports and train stations. If an offer for cheap transportation or hotel rooms seems too good, it probably is. Only use well-known travel agencies when booking your trip and planning activities in-country.

LGBT individuals will want to be especially careful as laws on hom*osexuality are unclear. While prosecution is rare, LGBT visitors may wish to avoid drawing attention.

What Should I Pack for India?

Packing for India can be a bit tricky, as the country is different from many popular travel destinations:

Pack light– Moving from place to place in India can be a bit tricky. Many forms of transportation have a tight fit and having something you can easily haul around is key. Bringing an extra backpack isn’t a bad idea either as a purse or small bag may not be enough to carry water, an umbrella and similar items.
Prepare for weather– Be sure to pack according to what season you’ll be in the country. Where you are headed is also a key factor as the Himalayas are a much cooler region.
Wear the right footwear– You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking (or even standing) in India. Make sure your shoes are up for the trip, your feet will thank you.
Bring a complete first-aid kit– The CDC has a complete list of recommended health items which can be found here. Some notable items include: sunscreen, insect repellent, hand sanitizer and diarrhea medicine like DiaResQ or other remedies.

Where Is the U.S. Embassy in India?

The State Department recommends all travelers to India enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive automated notifications from the U.S. Embassy. This program provides important information to travelers about potential threats in countries you may be visiting.

The U.S. Embassy in India is located at:

U.S. Embassy New Delhi
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri
New Delhi – 110021
India
Telephone: +(91) (11) 2419-8000
Fax: +(91) (11) 2419-8407

Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, India is an absolutely amazing destination. From the Himalayas to the coast of the Indian Ocean, the country’s unique culture and feel has something for every type of traveler.

To learn more about what you can do to prepare for an Indian trip, visit your local Passport Health clinic. Book your appointment today by calling or scheduling online now.

Customer Reviews

Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for India
Overall rating: 5 stars – 10 reviews
★★★★★
“Customized Service“
“My customized booklet for travel to India was waiting for me upon arrival. All medication options were discussed and I was able to make informed decisions. I received a shot on-site.”
Submitted by: Kent
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Travelling to India
★★★★★
“Fast service. professional, detailed explanations“
“Traveling to China and India on business – made appointment one week and went in for travel inoculations the next week. 10 am apt and was out the door by 1020. outstanding service and very friendly. Provided detailed explanations of the potential risks in each country and the pros/cons of the inoculations. Also offered pill form versus shot for one of the diseases. Much appreciated!”
Submitted by: Bill
★★★★★
“Great Experience“
“I had to receive 6 vaccines for an upcoming trip to India and I thought she took her time with me and explained everything really thoroughly instead of just sticking me with whatever she told me I needed. It was a great experience, she was super sweet and patient.”
Submitted by: Timmi
★★★★★
“India Vaccinations“
“Quick and easy visit. Explained all the things I need for India and what to avoid on my trip. Feel well prepared for my trip.”
Submitted by: Yolanda
★★★★★
“Exceptional service“
“Overall, my experience was excellent. The nurse was very knowledgeable, friendly and courteous. She provided insightful information about international travel, offered recommended immunizations and health tips for my upcoming business trip to India, and answered all my questions with ease and complete confidence. I would highly recommend Passport Health (and Jamie Napolitano, in particular) to my colleagues, friends and family.”
Submitted by: Gabriel
★★★★★
“Awesome support“
“I was running out the door for the airport to India and called asking for a new prescription. The clinician at Passport Health quickly wrote it up, called me, and had it in my pharmacy – super fast. Very impressed.”
Submitted by: Adam
★★★★★
“Efficient and Pleasant“
“We were provided with all the medical information and vaccinations necessary for our upcoming trip to India. Our nurse was pleasant and efficient. We received what we needed and were not pressured to purchase anything extra. We were able to purchase those things that we wanted and did not have to go running all over town to get the items. It was a great experience.”
Submitted by: Joan
★★★★★
“Great visit!“
“The nurse did an excellent job helping me understand a lot of things I had questions on. This is my first trip to India and the vaccinations and other health areas were my biggest unknown and biggest concern. I feel so much better after talking to her. She was very knowledgeable and answered all my questions. She was very patient and pleasant as well. Just a great experience. Thanks!”
Submitted by: Tom
★★★★★
“Outstanding visit“
“The nurse did a wonderful job at describing all the shots I needed and did not need for my trip to India. She took her time and made sure I understood what could happen if I was not careful. While not my first international trip … it was my first time to have to get shots for international travel to a developing country. I feel very well informed. Gail did not rush through anything which I really appreciated.”
Submitted by: Bob
★★★★★
“Efficient and Informative“
“I always enjoy this experience because I have enough stress as it is to deal with every time I prepare for a trip to India, Passport health has all my data and just makes it easy”
Submitted by: Josh
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